Measurement of gamma radiation exposure rates from natural UO2 fuel pellets.

An attempt has been made to measure ..gamma.. radiation exposure rates from natural UO/sub 2/ fuel pellets at near contact distances by means of a GM survey meter and LiF thermoluminescent dosimeters. An experimental device was fabricated which facilitated the holding of both the fuel pellets and the necessary measuring devices. A semi-empirical method for predicting exposure rates from a fuel pellet at near contact distances is also described. It is suggested that the experimental set up has the potential for providing a calibration device for ..gamma.. radiation instrumentation used to assess exposures in facilities handling U.